Reading Literature
What is the theme of a story?
A central message, lesson, or moral that the author conveys through the story.
What is the main idea of a nonfiction passage?
The most important point the author is making about a topic.
What is a context clue?
A word or phrase near an unfamiliar word that helps you figure out its meaning
What is a simile?
A comparison between two unlike things using "like" or "as."
What is the meaning of the word meticulous in this sentence?
“She was meticulous in her planning, leaving no detail unchecked.”
Very careful and precise.
Which type of figurative language is used in this sentence: "The wind whispered secrets through the trees"?
Personification.
What is the purpose of a text that uses chronological order?
To show events in the order they happened.
What does the word “reluctant” mean in this sentence: “She was reluctant to speak in front of the class.”
Unwilling or hesitant.
Why might an author use foreshadowing in a story?
To give hints or clues about what will happen later and build suspense.
What is the meaning of inept in this sentence?
“Despite his enthusiasm, his inept handling of the tools made the project take twice as long.”
Clumsy or lacking skill.
How does the setting influence the mood in a suspenseful story?
A dark or isolated setting can create a tense, eerie, or fearful mood.
What is the author’s purpose if they use strong emotional language and persuasive techniques?
To persuade the reader.
What do the Greek roots auto- and graph- mean in the word “autograph”?
Auto- means self, graph- means write → "autograph" means a person’s own signature or writing.
What effect does repetition have in a poem or speech?
It emphasizes important ideas and makes the message more memorable.
Based on the sentence, what does begrudgingly mean?
“He begrudgingly handed over the last slice of pizza to his sister.”
Unwillingly or reluctantly.
In a story, a character is torn between loyalty to a friend and doing what is right. What type of conflict is this?
Internal conflict (character vs. self).
How does an author develop an argument in an informational text?
By stating a claim and supporting it with evidence, reasoning, and examples.
Which word best completes the sentence?
The magician’s trick was so __________ that no one could figure it out.
A) obvious B) elaborate C) transparent D) predictable
B) elaborate
What is the purpose of a flashback in a narrative?
To provide background information about events or characters from the past that influence the present.
Choose the best definition for the word precarious in this context:
“The ladder rested in a precarious position, wobbling slightly every time she stepped up.”
A) safe
B) dangerous
C) strong
D) temporary
B) dangerous
Why might an author choose to tell a story from the perspective of a minor character instead of the main character?
To provide a unique or outside view of the main character, reveal information the main character doesn’t know, or show how others are affected by the events of the story.
How does comparing two different sources about the same topic help a reader better understand the subject?
It helps the reader see different perspectives, evaluate bias, and get a more complete understanding by combining facts, opinions, and interpretations from each source.
What is the meaning of the word “inevitable” in this sentence:
“After forgetting to water the plants for two weeks, their death was inevitable.”
Unavoidable or certain to happen.
Read the sentence: "Her hair was a colorful carnival"
What kind of figurative language is used, and what does it mean?
Metaphor; it means her hair was vibrant with color
What does alleviate most likely mean in this sentence?
“The medicine helped alleviate the symptoms, allowing her to get some rest.”
To ease or relieve something, especially pain or discomfort.